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When a ligand binds an ion channel-linked receptor, what change occurs that allows ions to pass through the membrane?
AThe receptor detaches from the membrane and enters the cytoplasm
BThe receptor triggers transcription of new ion channel genes
CThe receptor is degraded so ions can diffuse freely
DA conformational change opens a pore that lets ions flow through
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. A conformational change opens a pore that lets ions flow through
1. Ion channel-linked receptors form a channel through the membrane once a ligand binds.
2. Ligand binding causes a conformational change in the receptor structure that opens the channel.
3. This open pore then allows ions such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen to pass through.
4. The receptor is not degraded or detached from the membrane, so those options do not describe this mechanism.
_Source: OpenStax Biology (1st ed., CC BY 4.0), Ch 9 "Cell Communication", section 9.1 Signaling Molecules and Cellular Receptors_
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